#HTE

A January Heatwave in Australia (28 photos)

After just experiencing the warmest December on record, much of Australia is still enduring a sweltering January, with many new high temperature records being set. The brutal heatwaves have resulted in health warnings being issued, warning residents to stay indoors and to take special notice of animals in their care.  Overtaxed power grids have failed several times, leaving thousands without power, wildfires are burning in Tasmania, and wild animals are suffering as watering holes dry up. Last week, the town of Port Augusta set a new record high of 121 degrees Fahrenheit (49.5 degrees Celsius). Forecasts have the heat lasting at least through the end of January, possibly leading to yet another “hottest month” record.